The fifth DANTE Networking & Conference, held on 28–29 January 2026 in Opatija (Republic of Croatia), once again confirmed that adult education in Europe thrives through cooperation, knowledge exchange, and continuous connection between people and institutions. This highly important event brought together representatives from 18 European countries, creating a strong platform for dialogue on future competences, policies, and the role of humans in learning amid accelerating digital and social transformation.
Bosnia and Herzegovina was represented by a delegation consisting of:
• Dženita Džano, Director of DVV International – Country Office Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Sehija Dedović, President of CEI Nahla
• Muamer Mahmutović, President of the Chamber of Economy of Sarajevo Canton
• Adis Arapović, Head of the SMART Resource Centre
The delegation actively contributed to discussions on professionalizing the adult education sector, policy development, and advancing skills systems in line with current European practices.
The conference featured inspiring keynote presentations by Greta Pelucco from the EAEA and Prof. Dr. Katarina Popović, Secretary General of ICAE. Their messages opened important questions on finding the balance between technology and the human role in the learning process, as well as the skills that will be crucial for the educators of the future. A strong emphasis was placed on the idea that adult education must be viewed as a public good — a space for empowerment, active citizenship, critical thinking, and social inclusion.
Workshops led by European experts shared new approaches to micro-credentials, professional orientation, and current teaching models, and deepened our discussion on providing high-quality, flexible learning opportunities for adults.
Participants highlighted that digital transformation brings great opportunities but also deepens existing inequalities — many adults still remain outside lifelong learning systems. This underscores the need to develop inclusive policies and strengthen non-formal education, which is often closest to the real needs of people.
The conference also reaffirmed the importance of European programmes such as Erasmus+, which offer exceptional opportunities for strengthening partnerships, mobility, knowledge exchange, and the development of innovative educational solutions. Events like the DANTE Conference show how cooperation, networking, and joint efforts across Europe are essential for building stronger programmes and institutions, as well as for achieving greater positive social impact.
After two days of intensive exchange and joint reflection, it is clear that adult education has the power to create a more just, resilient, and inclusive society. By learning and connecting together, we open doors to new opportunities, innovations, and European partnerships that will shape the learning systems of the future.
We extend our thanks to our dear partners and friends from Dante for the invitation and the excellent organization, which enabled meaningful dialogue and networking with European partners.